Mystical Speed is a novella that I just don't know what to make of. When it was pitched to me via the promoter it came across as a novel set in America and Jamaica that would be an inspiration to all athletes. The story apparently centred around young track athletes who travel to Jamaica to find out the secret to Jamaica's running success. What they find there threatens their lives and changes them forever.
Quite an interesting idea isn't it? However, what I read was a very simplistic narrative that was better suited for a children's story and whilst I could see that it was an attempt at creating a fable, I didn't really like it.
What this novella did do though was inspire me to read about Jamaican folklore and if you are planning on reading this book then it would pay to read up about 'rolling calfs' and 'Brother Anansi' otherwise you will have no idea what is going on.
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| Rolling Calf |
Fulls marks for the cover though, it's one of the nicest book covers I've seen, and the layout presentation is also very good. But, given the lack of descriptive writing, and the fact that it reads like a children's book, I think that some illustrations would help to enhance it.
This book does try to give you an insight into Jamaican culture, food and language but I found the whole thing just a little unusual - the way that it was written and the actual story - and unfortunately it just wasn't for me.
I've checked other sites for reviews and find that it has been receiving 5 stars, so I do wonder if I am missing something?
For more information about this book please visit: Mystical Speed
Until next time.....
Maxine
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